Sasuke Uchiha awakens his Mangekyou Sharingan in Naruto Shippuden episode 138, titled “The End.” This pivotal moment marks a significant turning point in Sasuke’s character arc, propelling him further down the path of vengeance.
The Awakening: Episode 138 and its Significance
The culmination of Sasuke’s rage and despair after the death of his brother, Itachi Uchiha, triggers the awakening of his Mangekyou Sharingan. The emotional trauma overwhelms him, unlocking the advanced stage of the Sharingan. Episode 138 isn’t just about the power-up; it’s about the psychological toll it takes on Sasuke, solidifying his resolve to destroy Konoha and avenge his clan. The episode showcases the raw power of the Mangekyou and sets the stage for Sasuke’s increasingly darker path.
Understanding the Context: Itachi’s Death and Sasuke’s Grief
The events leading up to episode 138 are crucial for understanding the significance of Sasuke’s Mangekyou Sharingan. For years, Sasuke lived with the burning desire to avenge his clan by killing Itachi. However, after finally achieving his goal, he learns the devastating truth about Itachi’s actions – that he slaughtered the Uchiha clan under orders from Konoha to prevent a coup and protect Sasuke. This revelation shatters Sasuke’s world, transforming his hatred from Itachi to Konoha, thus fueling his rage and ultimately enabling the awakening of the Mangekyou.
Visual Representation: A New Stage of Power
The animation and visual representation of the Mangekyou Sharingan in episode 138 are striking. The intricate and unique design of Sasuke’s Mangekyou visually signifies the immense power he now wields and the profound emotional turmoil he has endured. It’s a stark contrast to his regular Sharingan, reflecting the evolution and intensity of his abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sasuke’s Mangekyou Sharingan
Here are some frequently asked questions that shed more light on Sasuke’s Mangekyou Sharingan and its implications:
1. What exactly is the Mangekyou Sharingan?
The Mangekyou Sharingan is an advanced form of the Sharingan that can only be awakened through the trauma of experiencing the death of someone close to the user. It grants access to powerful and unique jutsu, such as Amaterasu, Tsukuyomi, and Susanoo, abilities that are far beyond the capabilities of a standard Sharingan.
2. What powers does Sasuke gain with his Mangekyou Sharingan?
Sasuke gains access to several powerful techniques with his Mangekyou Sharingan. These include:
- Amaterasu: Uncontrollable black flames that burn until the target is completely incinerated.
- Tsukuyomi: A genjutsu that traps the victim in a world of illusions, allowing the user to control their perception of time and inflict mental torture.
- Susanoo: A powerful humanoid avatar made of chakra that protects the user and can be used offensively. Initially, his Susanoo is incomplete, but it gradually becomes more complete as he masters the ability.
3. Why is Itachi’s Mangekyou Sharingan different from Sasuke’s?
Each Mangekyou Sharingan user develops a unique pattern and unique abilities. While both Itachi and Sasuke possess Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi (though Sasuke’s Tsukuyomi is never explicitly shown), their specific patterns and the overall mastery of these abilities differ. The differences stem from their individual experiences and the nature of their awakening.
4. How does the Mangekyou Sharingan affect Sasuke’s vision?
Excessive use of the Mangekyou Sharingan leads to progressive blindness. This is a significant drawback and a major factor driving Sasuke’s decision to obtain Itachi’s eyes later in the series. The strain on the eyes is directly proportional to the amount and intensity of the Mangekyou abilities used.
5. What is the Eternal Mangekyou Sharingan?
The Eternal Mangekyou Sharingan (EMS) is achieved by transplanting the eyes of a sibling who also possesses the Mangekyou Sharingan. This process not only restores vision but also grants the user a new, permanent pattern on their eyes, combining the powers of both sets of Mangekyou. It eliminates the risk of blindness associated with regular Mangekyou usage.
6. When does Sasuke acquire the Eternal Mangekyou Sharingan?
Sasuke acquires the Eternal Mangekyou Sharingan after transplanting Itachi’s eyes in Naruto Shippuden episode 211, titled “Danzo Shimura.” This marks another significant power-up for Sasuke and enables him to use his Mangekyou abilities without the fear of losing his sight.
7. How does the EMS impact Sasuke’s abilities?
The EMS allows Sasuke to use his Mangekyou abilities, particularly Susanoo, for extended periods without the risk of blindness. It also enhances the potency of his existing techniques. His Susanoo becomes stronger and more complete, and he gains better control over Amaterasu.
8. Is Sasuke’s Susanoo different after obtaining the EMS?
Yes, Sasuke’s Susanoo undergoes a significant transformation after he obtains the EMS. It becomes more powerful, gains wings, and unlocks new forms. His Perfect Susanoo, achieved with the EMS, is capable of incredible feats of strength and destruction.
9. Does Sasuke ever revert back to his regular Sharingan or Rinnegan?
Sasuke can switch between his Eternal Mangekyou Sharingan and his Rinnegan, which he awakens later in the series after receiving a portion of Hagoromo Otsutsuki’s chakra. He uses the Rinnegan primarily for its space-time ninjutsu abilities, while the EMS powers his Amaterasu and Susanoo. He retains the ability to activate his regular Sharingan as well, but it’s less common after gaining the more powerful forms.
10. How does the Mangekyou Sharingan contribute to Sasuke’s overall character development?
The Mangekyou Sharingan plays a critical role in Sasuke’s character arc. It symbolizes his descent into darkness and his obsession with revenge. The power it grants him further fuels his hatred and his desire to destroy Konoha. The acquisition of the EMS allows him to overcome the crippling weakness of blindness, further solidifying his power and resolve.
11. Are there any other characters in the Naruto universe with the Mangekyou Sharingan?
Yes, besides Itachi and Sasuke Uchiha, other notable characters who have wielded the Mangekyou Sharingan include Madara Uchiha, Obito Uchiha (also known as Tobi), and Kakashi Hatake. Each of these characters possesses unique abilities and perspectives on the power of the Mangekyou.
12. What are the limitations of Sasuke’s Mangekyou Sharingan powers?
Even with the EMS, Sasuke’s powers are not without limitations. While he overcomes the risk of blindness, continuous use of chakra-intensive abilities like Susanoo can still deplete his chakra reserves and leave him vulnerable. Furthermore, the immense power of the Mangekyou can be difficult to control, requiring significant skill and concentration.